Demographic and Socioeconomic Status of Matua Community in Barishal, Bangladesh: Historical Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59573/emsj.8(6).2024.18Keywords:
Matua, demographic, socioeconomic, historical, BangladeshAbstract
This study is an analysis of the socioeconomic and cultural patterns of the Matua community revealing a gender imbalance with the presence of only 3% female respondents, indicating the typical practice of traditional norms and rituals. The dominant working-age population of the Matua family is raising concerns about workforce sustainability and elder care. Similarly, the high percentage of married respondents and reformed Hinduism emphasizes social justice and equality, highlighting the community's unique challenges. The study reveals a social patriarchal structure with mostly fathers leading households and large extended families, though modernization has directed those families to shift towards nuclear families. Their housing is still largely evident in raw mud houses. Whether the education levels are high, agriculture remains yet dominant. Income inequality is another significant issue, with nearly half of the population in the lowest income bracket. The study emphasizes the importance of gender inclusion, economic diversification, improved living conditions, and enhanced educational and employment opportunities for equitable community development.
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